In Memoriam: Orinthia T. Montague, 1967-2023

Orinthia T. Montague, affectionately known as Dr. O and president of Volunteer State Community College, passed away on Friday, September 22. She was 66 years old.

A native of Jamaica, Dr. Montague was a graduate of Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri, where she majored in interpersonal communication. She held a master’s degree in counseling from Lindenwood University in St. Charles, Missouri, and a Ph.D. in higher education administration from the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

In 2021, Dr. Montague was named the fourth president of Volunteer State Community College in Gallatin, Tennessee. Previously, she was the fourth president of Tompkins Cortland Community College in Dryden, New York, from 2017 to 2021. Earlier, Dr. Montague was the dean of students at Normandale Community College in Bloomington, Minnesota, and held a number of positions at the University of Missouri–St. Louis, including associate vice provost and dean of students.